If you love to read and have a passion for writing, then the Pope County Library Writers Group is for you.

The group began more than a year ago with about four members. Today there are more than 10 local wordsmiths who meet on the first and third Thursday of every month in the Heritage Hall next to the regional library in Russellville.

Many in the group have been writing their entire lives, are published in various journals, magazines and books, and some even have e-books available to download.

The writing is eclectic, ranging from poetry and short stories to novels. The subject matter is also diverse and includes romance, religion, personal memoirs, metaphysics, science fiction, and a host of other fields of expertise.

During meetings, they share writing, offer constructive criticism to one another and enjoy fellowship among a writing community.

“We all just love to write,” Sandy Hitt said of the group. “Each of us writes something different, and we just love the opportunity to get together and learn more about our craft.”

During Thursday’s meeting, Beverly Merrick shared an expert from her latest book she is writing, a memoir about growing up in Russellville. The excerpt focused on her memories of attending the movies.

She described the types of movies offered (back then only one show played on one screen), where she liked to sit and about the candy and popcorn. Her favorite types of candies were the ones that came in pieces, because she could make it last longer and she never stuck her gum under the seat because that was “really, really yucky.”

After she shared her piece, other members commented on how they were taken back to their own childhoods and offered suggestions for improvement also. There was also several poetry pieces read — two that were suggested be submitted at letters to the editors in newspapers around the country.

Pat Taylor shared a poem, which she described as a work in progress, about her rock fountain at home. She said the poem changes constantly because her mood and sensory images change each time she sits down to write the poem. Taylor’s poem was full of bright colors and conjured up a kaleidoscope-like lighting storm in the mind.

Each piece was unique and received with praise. Criticism was offered not to offend or hurt the writer’s feelings, but to offer subtle ways for improvement that can carry over into future works.

The criticism and need for accountability is one of the reasons Hitt said she likes the group.

“For many of us, this writing group is the first time we’ve openly shared our works with others,” Hitt said. “It really helps us grow to hear other writing styles and gives us more confidence in our own writing. The criticisms are always full of helpful insights that really make a difference.”

Hitt recently published an e-book, “Captivated by Cassie,” a romantic comedy that is available for download on Amazon. Hitt’s first e-book has been downloaded more than 1,000 times since July 10.

“It is really exciting,” Hitt said. “I really hope it leads to future endeavors. It is really easy to have an e-book published and we’d love to share the ins and outs of how to do it with other writers in town.”

Hitt said anyone interested in joining the group can contact the library at 968-4368.

Sherry Simpson, the adult program director at the library, said the library is excited to be partnering with budding writers in the area.

“The Pope County Library System is excited to partner with such diverse local talent in our writer’s group,” Simpson said. “We hope to see the group grow and would invite anyone interested to contact the library or come to a meeting.”

Hitt said the group hopes to host events in the community and at local coffee houses.